Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2026-2027
Module EAPG1007: Science Communication 1: NetZero and the Future of Energy
Department: Global Wuhan
EAPG1007: Science Communication 1: NetZero and the Future of Energy
| Type | Tied | Level | 1 | Credits | 10 | Availability | Available in 2026/2027 | Module Cap | None. | Location | Other |
|---|
| Tied to | F652 |
|---|---|
| Tied to | F668 |
| Tied to | H217 |
| Tied to | H317 |
| Tied to | H517 |
| Tied to | H717 |
Prerequisites
- None
Corequisites
- None
Excluded Combination of Modules
- None
Aims
- This foundational module addresses the critical transition period for students entering the JEI. Recognising that traditional College English provision focuses primarily on language proficiency rather than discipline-embedded academic communication, this course supports students to develop both English language proficiency and the academic literacy skills necessary for study in the Durham context within their chosen scientific discipline.
- The module is strategically designed around the theme of Net Zero and future energy to create meaningful integration with the broader programme curriculum, ensuring language development occurs within authentic academic contexts that reflect those students will encounter throughout their degree.
- The module contributes to students’ progression towards English language proficiency broadly equivalent to IELTS 6.0 across skill areas by the end of Year 1, with expected progression to IELTS 6.5 by the end of Year 2.
- Aims:
- To develop English language proficiency in reading and writing appropriate for undergraduate study in the sciences
- To introduce academic literacy practices and conventions of scientific disciplines
- To develop students’ understanding of the academic research process including academic integrity
Content
- The academic research process in the sciences, including academic integrity
- Reading and note-taking strategies for complex academic texts
- Developing disciplinary vocabulary
- Academic language including appropriate register, vocabulary, and structures
- Key academic genres such as lab reports, case studies, and posters
- Academic writing skills and conventions including paraphrasing, summarising, citation and referencing
Learning Outcomes
Subject-specific Knowledge:
- Understanding of the academic research process in the sciences, including academic integrity
- Understanding of academic writing conventions appropriate for Durham degrees and the discipline, including academic language, key academic genres, and academic writing skills
Subject-specific Skills:
- Strategies for managing complex academic reading related to the discipline, including reading and note-taking strategies
- Ability to produce academic writing appropriate for Durham degrees and the discipline
Key Skills:
- Academic reading skills in English
- Academic writing skills in English
- Progression towards English language proficiency broadly equivalent to IELTS 6.0 in reading and writing skill areas
Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module
- As language development requires in-class engagement and frequent, rapid feedback, the module will be delivered in small groups of 18 students to facilitate a communicative approach, effective student engagement and to maximise opportunities for language development.
- Classes will be student-centred and highly interactive. Teaching staff will deploy a range of pedagogical approaches which may include genre-informed pedagogies, corpus-informed pedagogies and Systemic Functional Linguistics. The format of the classes will vary but will include pair work, group work, and peer feedback.
- Some class time will be given over to one-to-one tutorials to allow detailed, individual feedback on formative tasks and to support preparation for summative tasks.
- Students will engage with asynchronous learning in preparation for classes or to support their development with specific aspects of language or specific academic skills. This may include online resources, readings or other preparation tasks.
- Note: Class sizes will be limited to 18 students. Attendance will be monitored.
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
| Activity | Number | Frequency | Duration | Total/Hours | Attendance Monitored |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Workshops | 12 | 2 per week | 2 hours | 48 | |
| Self-Directed Study | 13 | Weekly | 4 hours | 52 | |
| Total | 100 |
Summative Assessment
| Component: Coursework | Component Weighting: 100% | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Element | Length / duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
| In-Year Test | 1 hour reading assessment | 25% | |
| In-Year Test | 2 hour Reading into Writing Task | 75% | |
Formative Assessment:
A range of formative assessments during the semester will support the summative work. These will be integrated into class activities and one-to-one tutorials, providing students with regular feedback on their progress.
■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.